Houghton Hall was the residence of Great Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole and is a fine example of the Palladian style. During the early 18th Century several architects were involved in the design of the Hall with much of the supervision of the building work being the responsibility of Thomas Ripley. The house has magnificent interiors all designed by William Kent. The splendour of the interiors can still be seen by visitors today. During the 1950s, the 6th Marquess of Cholmondeley started a collection of model soldiers as a school boy and there are examples of his collection in Houghton’s museum all painted with great detail. The 7th Marquess has rearranged the content of the Hall to lay greater emphasis on the time of Sir Robert Walpole. He has also begun a restoration of the 5-acre walled garden in 1991. Houghton Hall has been a recipient of the “Garden of the Year Award” from Christies and the Historic Houses Association in recognition of the renovation of the walled garden. There are nearly 150 varieties of new and older roses in the beautifully maintained Rose Garden, the delightful Italian Garden is divided into 4 sections, there is a Rustic Temple designed by Isabel and Julian Bannerman and a Pool Garden, all with interesting features. St Martin’s Church which was enlarged and restored by Sir Robert Walpole is also well worth a visit as is the Park which is home to over 1,000 head of deer. Visit Houghton Hall’s website for opening times.